Skip to Main Content
Skip to content
University of Iowa

University Libraries

Neurodiversity Accessibility Resources at Main Library: Spaces

A listing of accessibility resources at Main Library to enhance the user experience.

Spaces

The University of Iowa Main Library provides a variety of study and academic work environments for library users. All library users are responsible for choosing an area in the building that bests fits their academic and research needs and shows consideration for others. Users should not choose areas where their work will disturb others or where the permitted activities of others may disturb them. The Main Library Floorplan maps each level of the library.
Service desk at Main Library with multiple computers and signage

Service Desk - This area is where you can get general help. You can:

  • check items and books out, like:
    • accessibility items (earmuffs, lap pad, wobble cushion)
    • books
    • chargers and laptops
    • DVDs
    • and many more!
  • be connected with a librarian in your area of study
  • ask general questions and get assistance
Photo of two students writing on whiteboard in group study room, Main Library

Group Study Spaces

  • Conversations are permissible at reasonable indoor speaking volume.
  • Group work is encouraged on the first floor Learning Commons.
  • Cell phone texting and talking at reasonable indoor speaking volume are permitted.

For information on first floor group study rooms, please visit the libraries group spaces page. Active learning takes place on the first floor, which has a large number of collaborative work stations, tables, booths, and group study rooms. The Learning Commons, Food for Thought Café, Service Desk, and a limited number of reference materials are located on this floor.

Other options for group study space include a fourth floor (room 4041) and 11 cubicles on the second floor corridor that are available on a first come, first served basis to UI students.
Photo of double sided wood desks with blue chairs along a wall (2nd floor Main Library)

Individual Study Spaces - Spaces like the one pictured can be found throughout the library. This picture is from the second floor but you are welcome to study at any available space, whether a single desk like these, a comfy chair, or a large table. 

Individual study spaces are available in each level of the library. Be aware of the quiet level of the individual study space you choose. 

 
Photo of study desks and chairs, tables and chairs, and cushioned chairs in Quiet Study (5th floor Main Library)

Quiet Study Spaces 

  • Whispered conversations are permissible.
  • Cell phone texting is permitted.
  • Individual work is permitted.

Third Floor

  • Seating on the east side of the building in the area around the current and bound journals
  • The Graduate Study Room (3132) is on the north end of the third floor corridor. Any current graduate student with a valid IowaOne card can access the room.

Fourth and Fifth Floor

  • Seating in both the east and west book stacks areas (The fifth floor is pictured here.)

Map of Quiet Study Spaces
Photo of door to Silent Study Space (2001 Main Library) showing work spaces with black chairs and divider walls Silent Study Room (2001 Main) - Need absolute quiet when you study? The silent study room is a space in the library for silence  – whispering, headphones, and keyboards are not permitted in this space. Remember to put your phone on silent when you enter.
Photo of Reflection Room (2060 Main Library) with rug, multiple cushions, chair, and bench.

Reflection Room (2060 Main) - This neutral space is available to all users on a first come, first served basis for 30 minutes at a time. It provides a quiet area for meditation, contemplation, or calming sensory overload. Silence is valued in this space.